The Department of Education (DOE) has just canceled more than $100 million in grants that were meant to fund diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) training.
This move is part of a broader effort by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, to cut “wasteful” spending within the federal government.
What’s Behind the Cuts?
According to a recent post on X, DOGE has terminated 89 DOE contracts totaling a whopping $881 million.
Of that amount, $101 million was specifically earmarked for DEI training, which included teaching educators how to help students understand and “interrogate” complex social issues like oppression and privilege.
Elon Musk himself weighed in on the issue, saying “Your tax dollars were spent on this.”
Reaction to the Spending Cuts
The move has been met with praise from some, including Nicki Neily, founder and president of Parents Defending Education. Neily called the DEI programs “wasteful” and “divisive,” and said that shutting them down is a “win for every student.”
Others, like Erika Donalds, wife of Republican Rep. Byron Donalds of Florida, said that the focus should be on improving basic skills like reading, saying “the kids can’t read.”
A Broader Crackdown on DEI Teachings
This isn’t the first time that the Trump administration has targeted DEI teachings.
In fact, President Trump has launched a federal review of DEI teachings and practices in educational institutions that receive federal funding.
Several colleges, including Missouri State University and West Virginia University, have already begun closing their DEI offices in response to the crackdown.
What’s Next?
As the debate over DEI teachings continues to heat up, it’s likely that we’ll see more moves like this in the future.
With the Department of Government Efficiency leading the charge, it’s clear that the federal government is taking a hard look at how its money is being spent.
One thing is for sure: this issue is far from over. Stay tuned for more updates as the story continues to unfold.